Design and Development What Should Go in a Fashion Tech Pack? (And Why It Matters)

If you’ve ever thought, “Why do I need a tech pack? Can’t I just show the factory a reference photo?” — you’re not alone.

BUT…

A tech pack is the most important document in the entire product development process.

Without one, you’ll waste time, money, and energy making samples that don’t match your vision.

In this post, I’ll walk you through:

• What a fashion tech pack is
• What to include in yours
• Why most bad samples are caused by missing tech pack info
• And how to get one made — even if you’re not a designer

What Is a Fashion Tech Pack?

A tech pack is like a blueprint for your garment. It tells the factory exactly what you want, down to the stitching, sizing, and label placement.

Think of it as your translation tool between your idea and your manufacturer’s sewing machine.

What Should Be in a Fashion Tech Pack?

Here’s a breakdown of every section:

1. Flat Sketches (Front, Back + Details)

Clear, line-drawn illustrations that show the exact silhouette, seams, pockets, and more

Tip: These are NOT fashion illustrations, they’re functional and technical.

2. Measurement Specs (a.k.a. Spec Sheet)

A full chart with:

• Points of measure (POMs)
• Base size specs
• Tolerances (acceptable variation)
• This is how factories know what “true to size” means for your brand.

3. Fabric & Trim Info

Include:

• Fabric name + composition (e.g. 92% cotton, 8% spandex)
• Color, weight, and finish
• Zippers, buttons, labels, drawcords, etc.
• Vendor references (if sourced)

4. Construction Notes

Explain HOW it’s made:

• Seam type (e.g. flatlock, overlock)
• Topstitching or hemming
• Pocket finish
• Elastic insertion or binding
• Factories don’t guess — they follow your instructions.

5. Labeling & Packaging Instructions

Where do labels go? What info needs to be on them?

Include:

• Brand label placement
• Size label placement
• Hang tag callouts
• Folding, bagging, or boxing preferences

6. Visual References & Inspiration

Optional but helpful:

• Moodboard or reference photos
• Close-up shots of fabric or finishes
• Callouts for features you want to replicate

7. Fit Comments (After Sampling Begins)

Once you get samples back, this is where you add feedback:

• What fit issues you saw
• Suggested changes
• New measurements or construction notes
• This section evolves as you iterate.

What Happens If You Don’t Use a Tech Pack?

• Miscommunication = wasted samples
• Manufacturers fill in gaps with guesses
• Delays, frustration, and money down the drain

Tech packs don’t just help your factory, they help you get a consistent, repeatable process.

What If You’re Not a Designer?

You don’t need to create a tech pack yourself , but you do need someone who can create one for your product. That’s what I help founders with every day.

“I didn’t even know what I was missing until Leslye showed me what a real 
tech pack looked like.” — Startup Founder

Download the Free Tech Pack Guide

Want a visual breakdown of everything that goes inside?

Grab the sample layout here.

Ready to Fix the Sampling Process?

I create tech packs for startup and emerging RTW brands who want to stop wasting time and money. If you're tired of bad samples and slow timelines, let’s fix it together.